He told manutd.com: "The gaffer sent me several texts during the World Cup finals. He offered support and encouragement, which I appreciated. He’s always watching, he never misses anything.

"I also keep in touch with Mike Phelan, coach Rene [Meulensteen] and Martin, the manager’s brother. Players drift apart so I don’t have any contact with the players, but I still have contact with United people."